Balajanov: Training skilled cybersecurity experts is key investment for states

Preparing professional cybersecurity specialists and retaining a qualified workforce remains one of the most significant investments any state can make, Elvin Balajanov, representative of the National Cybersecurity Center of the State Security Service (SSS) of Azerbaijan, stated at the 4th National Cybersecurity Forum in Baku, Report informs.

During his speech, Balajanov stressed that technological solutions alone are not sufficient in today's environment.

"The formation and retention of professional cybersecurity personnel continues to be one of the most important investment directions for any country. Resilience directly depends on cooperation – whether through public‑private partnerships, coordination among national CERT structures, joint training activities, or knowledge‑sharing initiatives," he said.

The official noted that as artificial intelligence (AI) continues to transform both cyber threats and defense mechanisms, regional cooperation will become even more critical to ensure innovation strengthens collective security rather than undermines it.

"For Azerbaijan, today's discussions once again highlight the importance of investing in international and regional cooperation, as well as partnerships. The experiences shared here prove that although cyber threats are global, effective responses are shaped through practical collaboration, mutual trust, and shared commitments to securing our digital future," Balajanov added.